African regional plan for the application of science and technology to development

AFRICAN REGIONAL PLAN

for the Application of Science and Technology

to Development

(~l _~

~~

UNITED NATIONS

ECONOMIC COMMISSION FOR AFRICA

INTRODUCTION CHAPTER

1

I GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENTIFIC AND T,;CHNOLOGICAL C',PACITY - - II NATURAL RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT III FOOD AND AGRICULTURE - - -

IV INDUSTRIAL DESIGN, RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT - - - V TRANSPORT AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Part One: Transport _ - - Part Two: Telecommunications VI HOUSIN G AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT VII HEALTH AND SANITATION - - - - VIII SCIEN CE AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION

IX POPULATION - - - X TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY

4 13 - 31 49 - - - 58 - - - 58 - 67 - 81 - - - 99 - 112 - - - 123 - - - 129

Background

1. The objective of the World Plan of Action (WPA) is to provide a framework for the United Nations Organization and its agencies to collaborate with and to provide assistance to developing countries for the conception and imple- mentation of action programmes, in a number of selected sectors of their

economies, which will be directed towards creating or reinforcing the infra- structure necessary for the application of science and technology to

development in the developing regions of the world.

2. The Glebal Plan for the WPA was completed by the United Nations Advisory Committee on the Application of Science and Technology (UNACAST) early this year and has been pUblished by the United Nations as document E/4962/Rev.l.

The Global Plan is an indicative plan which sets out the global objectives, the areas of priority for action/and the types of action proposed by the

Advisory Committee for United Nations action and support. As such, it provides a framework for further planning and action at the regional level.

3. The second stage of the World Plan of Action is the preparation of the Regional Plans of Action. It has been decided that the Regional Plans should be in the form of selected programmes,in the relevant sectors of the Global Plan, chosen to reflect regional priorities. For the African

Regional Plan, the country surveys

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of needs and priorities prepared for the member countries in the African region specifically for the World Plan ef Action) have been used as a guidd. In addition, submissions which have

been made available by relevant specialized agencies in different sectors have also been utilized as source materials in the preparation of the Plan.

4. The Regional Plan is intended to furnish the framework and provide ~n

envelepe for the different types of projects which may be identified in answer to specific needs and priorities at country level. In accordance with

ECOSOC resolution 1638(LI), the Regional Plans are being prepared by the Regional Commissio~s. They are intended to be used as guide documents for the preparation . f the country programmes for the World Plan of Action.

Survey of Needs and Priorities in Science and Technology, World PlanefAction.

ECA documents s&T/WPA/1-41.

Structure of the African Regional Plan

5.

The African Regional Plan is divided into ten chapters, each of which deals with one of the ten sectors adopted for the plan frame at the Fifth Meeting of the UNACAST Regional Group for Africa in October(1970. ]./

6. In each chapter the importance of the sector to overall economic and social development is discussed. Similarly, the main issues in the sector/in those areas where science and technology intervene and the types of actions which are considered necessary to undertake under the World Plan of Action to promote the contribution of the sector to development are also dealt with.

7. The discussion of issues is followed in each chapter by a statement of the objectives adopted for that sector, which the programmes in science and technology within the sector will be directed towards realizing. After the statement of objectives follows a number of programmes in each chapter. The programmes are selected so that ade~uate coverage of the range of

needs and priorities reported at country level by the country surveys,and by other source documents is obtained through a minimum number of different' programmes that wi~l satisfy the objectives envisaged.

8. Under each programme, the number of sample projects are given f'rJiLillustra- tive purposes only. It is not intended that the projects listed under each

programme are exhaustive; but they have been introduced to enable those concerned with the selection of projects for the preparation of the country plans to have a guide as to the type of projects which will fit into each programme.

Preparation of Country Plans for the World Plan of Action

9.

The next stage of elaboration of the Plan will involve the selection of projects for each country in the main sectors of the WPA and the preparation of preliminary cost estimates for their execution. It is the intention that the preparation of country plans be guided by the following principles, namely:

(a) Each country should make a choice of its own projects within the framework of the Regional Plan;

(b) In the preparation of project descriptions and plans,

assistance will be made available on re~uest by the United Nations system of organizaticns. _Th~s is in conformity ^{'OC(' •}

with the original spirit of the World Plan of Action that the United Nations organizations assist the developing countries by providing expertise for project design.

See Report of the Fifth Meeting, UNACAST Regional Group for Africa, ECA document E/CN.14/542.

"".

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10. In order to prepare the national plans for the World Plan of Action, it will be necessary to set up, as early as possible in each member country a National Committee for the World Plan of Action under the aegis of the Ministry responsible for Planning and Economic Development and subordinate to the planning commission. This Committee will include representatives from the different ministries of Government which are responsible for the different sectors of national activities mentioned in the Regional Plan.

The National Committee should also include a representative of the Ministry of Finance. The regional economic commission will provide an expert concerned with the elaboration of the World Plan of Action,who will liaise with the National Committee and will assist the Committee in its work as may be required.

11. Each National Committee so formed will be charged with the responsibility of studying the proposals in the Regional Plan and, taking account of the existing national development plans, of selecting the programmes and projects which each country would like to see implemented within the framework of- the

)i ..rld. Plan of Action. As regards the iristi tutional needs of African countries

science and technology, country surveys are being conducted on behalf of the UNACAST and will be published when available.

Financing of the World Plan of Action

12. The question of financing the projects at country level defined within the World Plan of Action is being examined by the United Nations and in particular by the UNDP and the World Bank. Various proposals are under consideration,which range from a proposal to set up a United Nations Fund to be managed specifically for the benefit of projects under the WPA1and other proposals that existing United Nations financing organizations allocate, as a matter of policy, a definite proportion of their financing programme for

projects to be submitted under the aegis of the World Plan of Action. However, further information on this subject of financing has to await the deliberations of ECOSOC at its fifty-first session as well as those of the Advisory Panel on Programme Policy of the UNDP which is also considering the question.

Chapter I - GENERAL DEVELOPMENT OF SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL CAPACITY

GE~RkL D=~=~)?~~NT ate SCI~r~IFIC AND TE~ill,ULOGICAL CAPACITY INTRODUCTION

13. One important information which was obtained from the field surveys

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of needs and priorities in science and technology in individual African countries is that there is widespread recognition at senior government and other levels of the fact that science and technology could contribute greatly to economic development. However, the same survey revealed that this

recognition, by and large, does not reflect itself in policy-making or planning for development, and most of the government officials who recognize the

importance of science and technology do not really know in what ways to use them for promoting development.

14. This absence or uncertainty of action on science and technology stems in part from the general shortage of officials with scientific training in decision-making positions in government machinery, and in part from the fact that there is, in the majority of countries, no department or section of \he government administrative apparatus which has the specific responsibility for dealing with science and technolegy as a regular or integral part of government business.

15. If there is recognition, however unprecise, of the importance of science and technology for development at the level of senior government officials, this is nowhere in the case ofthe general public and with opinion leaders in the political life of the country. For most of the general public, science and technolegy means Russian satellites, American moon trips, and the

esoteric activities of impractical scientists in university research labora- tories. These impressions exist because this is the only image of science projected by mass media. It is further strengthened by the fact that science instruction is not widespread in school teaching, even at secondary level.

Where science is taught in schools, it is primarily an option for those who are going into professional training for which science subjects constitute the entry requirements.

16. In order to be able to utilize science and technology for development, there must be a creation of government organs for deliberating on scientific and technological affairs, and for policy-making. Supporting departments for

planning and managing the scientific and technological activities of Governments also need to be set up. However, for consistent and systematic benefits to

be derived from such activities, they have to be based on a coherent plan which is related to the objectives of social and economic development. This means that each country requires to elaborate a Technological Development Plan

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Surveys of Needs and Priorities, HPA.

which will have two main facets: one will be the development and expansion of the country's scientific and technical potential, the second will be the orientation and expansion of research activities so as to develop or acquire the necessary technologies for the increase of productivity in all sectors of the country's economy.

17. The situation of the scientific and technical communities in the African countries and the prevailing attitudes to them at government and often at the general public level is dysfunctional for any plans to utilize science and technology more effectively for development. At government official level, decision-making power is in the hands of an administrative elite with an essentially non-science culture. Hitherto the official attitude has been that scientists and technologists do not participate in administrative policy or decision-making, but should be available to answer technical questions if asked. The prevailing attitude of benevolent

tolerance towards scientists and technologists in government departments is gradually changing to one of alarm and obstruction, as the tendency of this category of persons to obtrude themselves into administrative decision- making becomes more pronounced in the definition of development plans in scientific and technical fields.

18. There exists, as a consequence, a resistance to the further entry of scientists and technicians into decision-making levels of the government administrative machinery, which has all the features of a power struggle to "keep the new boys mit". This resistance must be removed if the

African countries are going to be able to incorporate science and technology into government business and use it to promote the well-being of their people.

19. On the side of the scientific and technological community, there are also entrenched attitudes which are not conducive to their playing a useful role in the area of development. The prevailing traditions and practices of these communities wherever they are well organized, appear to be directed towards preserving their privileged positions as an independent elite which will remain a charge on the community in terms of economic support, but which should be left independent and free to pursue what science it wants.

Many scientists in universities in Africa look on their institutions as a place of refuge from involvement in the hurly-burly of the real world around them. Hence the science communities frequently have the attitudes of a ~riesthood which is the custodian of science for posterity rather than for today's use. This tradition of academic detachment and excessive concern with the maintenance of "scientific liberty" has resulted in a situation in which scientists and technologists have little influence on public policy. The tradition is, of course, being eroded by the impact of outside developments, but a more conscious effort is required to make the full changes necessary in the orientation of the scientific and

technological community in order to mOlilize them for active participation in development.

20. A subject of great importance for the African countries is international co-operation in science and technology. At present, international co-

operation is largely conceived and organized in the form of attendanoe at conferences by established or eminent scientists and technologists, or the occasional interchange of visits, again by established scientists. This may be very useful for the future enhancement of the reputation and status of established scientists, but is almost completely unproductive in so far as contributions to the expansion of the scientific and technical potential of the African countries is concerned, or in terms of contributing to

programmes for the promotion of development.

21. International co-operation in science and technology needs to be

conceived of in other terms than just the provision of further opportunities to enhance the reputation of those who already have one. More specifically, international co-operation can be fruitful in the provision of further

training and experience for younger scientists and technologists who will perhaps become famous tomorrow, but who have to carry out tasks defined by the research and development needs of today. International co-operation can also be of considerable assistance in the actual work of solving

individual research problems and the developing or adaptation of the technologies required for production in various sectors of the African econornies ,

Ob.i ecti ves

22. The purpose of this sector of the plan is to promote and reinforce the development of technological independence in the countries of the region.

The objectives which are selected to guide action to this end are as follows:

(a) The development of national organs for the consideration of scientific and technological affairs and for the determination of national policies in these spheres;

(bO The creation of an informed public, at all levels, on the importance of science and technology in human affairs, and the potential offered by the appropriate use of technology for the development of human society and the improvement of the physical conditions of life;

(c) The institutinn of scientific and technological planning as a regular component of development planning. Each Government should create the organization for elaborating short- and

long-term scientific 2nd technological development plans which will be parallel in time to and supportive of the social and

econo~ic development plans;

the recognition of the responsibility to assist the developing countries in the use of science and technology which is taking place in the developed countries both in government thinking and in the attitude of their scientific and technological communities;

(e) The reinforcement of the national network of institutions for science and technology by the establishment of a limited number of institutions for training high-level manpower, and for research. Each of these institutions will have a mission directed to the development of new technology and the production of trained manpower for some sector of the national economy.

The current popular terminology for the institutions envisaged here is "Centres of Excellence";

(orr)) A considerable reorientation and mobilization of the scientific and technological communities in each country. The scientific and technological community requires to re-define a role as an integral, contributing estate in the mainstream of national life and should reorganize itself to fulfil this new role.

23. The public will also need to be re-educated on the new role of its scientific and technological community so that it can revise some of its traditional misconceptions about the~ and develop the necessary attitudes to enable the nation to make the best use of its human, scientific and technological potential.

24. The following programmes are proposed in this sector for the African Regional Plan.

Programme I - CREATION OF NATIONAL STRUCTURES FOR POLICY-MAKING ANll

PLANNING IN SCIENCE AND TECIlNOLOGY

25. The projects proposed under this programme provide for the creation of organizations to undertake national policy-making and planning and for the training of the strategic scientific and technological perscnnel required for the operation of these organizations.

Project Ca) : Creation of national science and technology decision- making machinery at ministerial level

Such national science and technology machinery (ministerial councilor committee) will be responsible for deciding on overall national objectives and policies in science and

technology, for deciding on the level of national expenditure on science and technologYJ and for deciding on the implications of national scientific and technological policies in such areas of government business as defence and foreign affairs.

Project (b)

Project (c)

Project (d) Project (e) Project (f)

Creation of government departments (or ministries) of scientific and technological affairs

The functions of such departments will include broadly the servicing of the ministerial decision-making machinery in science and technology, the preparation of matters for consideration by the ministerial councilor committee, and general study, planning and administration in respect of national scientific and technological affairs which form a part of government business.

Creation of national research councils

Such research councils (which may be set up for all scientific and technological research, or for different subject areas) will advise and assist the government department of scientific and technological affairs in the expansion and management of the national network of research institutions.

Training of science administrators for the management of research institutions and research programmes

Training of personnel for scientific and technological forecasting and planning

Elaboration and definition of appropriate legal statutes for the employment of scientific workers in public service Vrogramme II - CREATION OF AN INFORMED PUBLIC IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 26. The creation of an informed public on science and technology should include all levels within the nation. This should be organized in the form of continuing programmes and activities and should provide the opportunities

for national discussion and debate on issues of science, technology and the public interest.

-Project (a) : Study tours of government science ministries (departments, bureaux, etc.) and research establishments in developed

countries for ministers and parliamentarians from African countries

Vroperly conceived and planned, such study tours offer the quickest and most effective way of demonstrating to members of Governments and to political leaders in African countries, the depth and the extent of government involvement in science and technology which is necessary in a modern. State.

Project (b) Project (c)

Project (d)

Establishment of science and technology museums Promotion of science journalism

This would include the promotion of such developments as science news and features in major newspapers, science magazines, radio and TV science programmes. It will be necessary to provide courses in science journalism at a few universities or technical colleges.

Organization of a series of regional seminars around

the general theme of science. technology and public policy Possible subjects for such a series are:

Science and Technology and National Development Science and Technology and National Security Science and Technology and Foreign Policy

Science and Technology and Industrial Development Science and Technology and Agricultural Development Science and Technology and Natural Resources

Science and Technology and Environmental Conservation Science and Technology and Public Health

Science and Technology and Employment Science and Technology and Human Rights Science and Technology and Religion.

Programme III INTRODUCTION OF SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING PARALLEL TO AND SUPPORTIVE OF SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING

27.

There is a need for studies directed towards developing methodology and procedures for technological planning. This will take place initially at the same time as work is undertaken on the preparation of technological development plans. An important part of the task of technological planning will be the identification and the collection of the kinds of data which

will constitute the inputs to technological planning.

Project (a) : Preparation of national census (or inventory) of scientific and technological potential Project (b)

Project (c)

Preparation of national scientific and technological development plans

Preparation of national plans for the transfer of commercial technology

Programme IV - ESTABLISHMENT OF FORJVIAL MACHINERY FOR INTERNATIONAL CO- OPERATICN IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

28. The establishment of formal machinery for international co-operation will normally be sponsored and supported by the Government. However, the creation and operation of the machinery should be done, in close collaboration with the national scientific and technological community including professional associations and universities.

29. Projects which are proposed under this programme are:

Pro~ect (a) : Organization of exchange schemes for scientists and engineers (international as well as in tra-African)

Such exchange schemes should enable scientists and engineers from African countries to obtain experience in teaching, research, design and construction in foreign universities, in government scientific and technical research establishments, in large engineering corporations or on engineering projects in other countries.

Pro.iect (b)

Pro~ect (c)

Programmo V

Organization of ~oint research programmes in co-operation with neighbouring States and other countries having similar or related problems of research interest

Research into environmental and natural resources utilization problems are particularly suitable for this form of inter- national co-operation.

Establishment of funds for financing participation of African scientists and engineers in international

scientific and technical research programmes, conventions, etc.

ESTABLISHMENT OF INSTITUTIONS FOR ADVANCED (POST-GRADUATE) TRAINING AND RESEARCH

30. The concept of centre of excellence implies an institution devoted primarily to post-graduate training and research in a subject of special relevance to the solution of development problems. As enunciated by the African States at a number of regional meetings,

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the idea is for the

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^(a) OAU Council of Ministers, September 1967, resolution CM/RES.116(IX).

(b) UNESCo-OAU Conference on Education and Scientific and Technical Training in Relation to Development in Africa, 16-27 July 1968, resolution IX.

(c) OAU Council of Ministers, September 1968, resolution CM/RES.171 (XI).

Establishment of a network of.institutions each specializing in a branch (or branches) of knowledge related to the exploitation of natural resources,

or to the development of technology for particular industries, or to the solution of specific problems of infrastructural development. The centres may be regional or national in status depending on the field of specialization.

31. It is proposed that a limited number of institutions mission-oriented to the study and solution of development problems of scientific or technologi- cal nature be included in this sector of the WPA. The institutions proposed are the following:

(a) Centres of excellence in applied science and technology;

(b) Centres of excellence in earth sciences;

(c) Centres of excellence in mineral preparation and extraction metallurgy;

(d) Centres of excellence in machine design;

(e) Centres of excellence in food technology;

( f) Centres of excellence in marine science and technology.

Programme VI - ORGANIZATION AND MOBILIZATION OF THE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING COMMUNITY

32. The projects under this programme are directed to the scientific and engineering communities in the different countries. In the main, the action that will be required from the United Nations system will be in the form of advice and technical assistance support. In some countries, the science and engineering communities already have their professional associations, in some cases very well established. For such countries Project (a) under this programme is not applicable.

33. Four projects are proposed under this programme.

Pro~ect (a) : Formation of scientific and professional engineering associations

This project is applicable at the national level only to

countries having sizeable science and engineering communities.

Sub-regional associations may be more appropriate in some parts of the continent. Where national associations already exist, they could be strengthened by bringing them together at the regional level for co-operative activities.

Proiect (b) : Establishment of national academies of science or equivalent organizations

Pro.ject (c) Pro.ject (d)

Promotion of national codes for professional accreditation and practice

Promotion of scientific and engineering conventions, congresses, etc., at regional level

The strategies and plans for planning and implementing the projects under this programme will require the prior establish- ment of close personal contacts between the United Nations officials concerned and leading members of the science and engineering communities in the countries of the region.

Programme VII - THE ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION AND DOCUMENTATION CENTRES 34. The need for centres for the storage and provision of information on science and technology, particularly on available technology and scientific research is well recognized. One such centre which is being planned at /"

global level is the UNISIST project which is being developed under the alegis of the United Nations by UNESCO and ICSU. Less elaborate centres but with a similar mission require to be established at national and regional levels.

elements of the material environment which influence the productive activity of man or his life in one way or another. There are many forms of natural resources, including mineral, water, land, energy, climatic,plant and animal resources. However, this Chapter, as a part of the African Regional proposals, will deal with the rational development and utilization of

mineral, land, water and energy resources. Although forests and wild life, oceans and marine life represent important resources, they have not been considered in this Chapter but are included in the Chapter on Food and Agriculture.

36. The importance of natural resources, particularly land, water, mineral and energy resources for economic development of any country is generally known.

37.

From early times, the general well-being of human societies has de- pended on natural resources - their development, conservation and utiliza- tion. It is generally admitted that natural reSOurces are a permanent factor directly influencing the development of economi. activities and that a

rational use of natural resources is a prerequisite for solving the main problems of national economic development in any country. Natural resources and their derivatives constitute, very often, the main source of national income for many developing countries and practically the only source of export earnings for their economic development.

38.

A characteristic of virtually all the developing countries, especially in Africa, is the existence of many undiscovered, unexplored, unexploited and underutilized natural resources. The development and optimum utiliza- tion of natural reSOurces demands first of all, the most comprehensive knowledge of these resources and, secondly, policies to fUlly incorporate their exploitation into the national development plans of individual

countries. A systematic approach to discovery, classification, inventory, exploitation and utilization of natural reSOurces must be evolved in each country.

39. A major task in assisting the developing countries is to help them to determine what natural resources are available and what are the most effective methods of using them for economic development. It is generally admitted, and has been reaffirmed more than once by the General Assembly in a number of resolutions, that all countries have the right to exercisb permanent sovereignty over their natural resources in the interests of their national devdlopment. They have the right to extend or to reduce the extraction and utilization of their natural resources within the framework of their development plans, in accordance with the priorities determined by the

countries themselves. However, many of the developing countries do not know what should be done for more effective utilization of their natural resources.

Conference (1964). The country surveys compiled by ECA experts during 1969/1970 show the full awareness of all Governments of the opportunities which science and technology can provide for economic development in general and for the promotion of the utilization of natural resources, in particular. In most developed countries there are government departments to deal with the questions of natural resources development and utiliza- tion. In some of these countries there are also research institutions and/or research councils functioning as the main policy-making organs.

But in many African countries governmental machinery for natural resources research is as yet inadequate, or is still in the formative stage. Often there is lack of adequate co-ordination between legislative and executive bodies and between government and private agencies in the development and utilization of natural resources.

41. By and larGe, the mineral resources of African countries are exploited today by the simple exportation of minerals in more or less raw forms.

Today, as before independence, the greater part of known mineral wealth is exported out of the continent and toe little is actually used for local consumption or for intra-African trade. E~en the more common deposits of raw materials for building and cement industries, for fertilizer produc- tion, etc., are not yet thoroughly evaluated, in spite of all the evidence of their importance for the development of the continent.

42. In all African countries, most of the activity in mineral resources research and exploitation was and still is oriented more to export produc- tion, to satisfy the needs of COnSumers in other continents, rather than of national economies. This has meant that mineral resources research has been mainly limited to the search for new deposits of known minerals to enlarge their exports, instead of the organization of investigations of general geological character. This orientation is the main obstacle to the rapid discovery of new mineral resources that are much needed for Africa's own economic development.

43. Even on the basis of existing data, there is no doubt that the ultimate mineral potentia:ities of the continent are so vast that Africa is sure to become one of the leading continents in mineral output in the future.

44. As far as energy resources are concerned, these are forms of natural resources or are a result of their transformation. Primary Sources of energy such as mineral fuels, (crude oil, coal, natural gas, etc.), water power, vegetal fuels, wind, solar and geothermal energy and secondary

sources in the form of electricity, refinery gas, petroleum produots, etc., are all derived from nature.

45.

The importance of different sources of energy changes with technical and economic progress. For example, the use of coke for metallurgy, the invention of the internal combustion engine, as well as the possibility to transform one form of energy into another and to transport energy over long distances either as electric power, or in the form of liquid or gaseous fuels, completely chanced the main pattern of energy use in modern society.

encompasses important technical, industrial and general economic aspects, including the necessity for full survey and evaluation of all available fuel, hydro-power and other energy resources which depend on general geological and hydro-meteorological studies.

47.

The assessment of water resources of any country should take into account the whole range of water use. The major consumers of water in African countries are agriculture and livestock, but scme pcwerful factors such as the ccming industrializaticn, the increase in human populaticn with the necessary develcpment of agriculture may produce water shortages almost everywhere in the continent.

48. There is a need for multinational co-operation for the development of international river basins in Africa with a view t. undertaking studies, surveys and projects related to the management of a common river basin.

On the basis of integrated studies of a river basin, many problems such as the storage of water the diversion of rivers for irrigation, the creation of water falls for hydro-power stations or the prevention of floods, etc., can be combined in one project for the greatest benefit of the people.

49. It should be mentioned here that the use of land resources and their productivity in any country also depends on climatic conditions and the availability of general water resources for irrigation as well as on the availability of fertilizers. The development of land resources is closely linked with, and depends on the development and research into other natural resources, particularly water, climatic and mineral resources.

50. Research on major natural resources such as land, water, mineral and energy resources should be fitted into a programme of integrated surveys of natural wealth in general. Such surveys will be based on general geological surveys and hydrogeological and hydrometeorological investigation which for particular purposes cannot be separated from each other.

51. One cf the solutions for more rapid economic development in African countries is a more systematic exploitation of the natural resources potential. Therefore systematic and thorough surveys of all actual and potential natural resourceS should be carried out as soon as possible, as they are the prerequisites for intelligent development, effective manage- ment and rational use of these resources.

52. I t should also be kept in mind that there is the need to maintain a balance between the elements of the natural environment through

integrated development and the conservation of nature and its resources.

This does not mean the mere saving of natural resources, and never implies preventing their use. It only means the use of resources in such a way as to get maximum benefit from them.

Ob,iectives

53. The main objectives of the programmes proposed for natural resources development for the African Regional Plan are the following:

(a) To assist African countries to determine what natural

resources are available in their territories and toc,pr~m.te

the rational planning of their utilization for more rapid economic development for the benefit of these countries;

(b) To strengthen or create government capability to deal effectively with the economic and technological aspects of the exploration and utilization of natural resources including policy-making, planning and project implementation;

(c) To create and develop :Pacilities for the training of qualified personnel (e.g., skilled workers, technicians,

mineral economists, engineers and scientists) for exploration, for the planning and management of exploitatio~andfor the conservation of natural resources;

(d) To assist African countries to _establ~sh new, or increase the

production of existing mineral e;x;tract'iiuh jarrd. proogssJi.t\.~i.n'dus;tries ; (e) To promote international and regional co-operation in natural

resources research, particularly in the exploration and utilization ~f the natural resources of the continent.

Programme I - TO ESTABLISH THE BASIS'FORTHEHNV1'NTORY, PLANNIN G AND IflANAGEMENT OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE NATU.&LiJRESOURt'EJS IN THE AFRICAN COUNTRIES

54.

The development and expansion of national services, and the carrying

mit of s'ystematic surveys (of natural resources) are essential for establish- ing the basis for the oareful planning and management of natural reSOUrces.

Pro,iect (a) ~.lve the existing deficiencies in mapping and

surveyin~services by:

- Developing or expanding the national cartographic and geological services in each country; increasing the number of the field teams and providing them with the most sui t- able equipment; laboratories ror coping with local

problems, map eiLiting uni ts and persgnnel with

<2xpe r i en c e ;

- Establishing three or four inter-regional centres for specialized and integrated surveys, regi.nal studies and training in the following domains, airborne geological and geophysical surveys, topographic surveys, geological mapping, photo-geological interpretation and reconnaissance prospecting, photogrammetry, ground geophysical and geochemical surveys on a regional scale.

Project (b)

Project (c)

To plan and carry out detailed investigaticns for mineral

resnurces in selected areas in order to:

- Identify new mineral deposits;

- Establish the size, shape and the commercial value of the various mineralized zones or bodies;

- Recommend further possible development on the basis of laboratory studies and pilot experimental processes.

To carry out systematic surveys for water resources in order to obtain detailed knowledge on the fcllowing:

Surface and subterranean available water source_;

Chemical and biochemical properties of the water and external factors influencing its quality and quantity;

- River basin development;

Possible utilization of other unconventional sources

(treatment of soiled water, desalination, artificial rain).

Project (d) : To undertake at naticnal and interregional level surveys of potential SOUrces and demands of energy, identifying:

- The conventional and non-conventional resources of energy available in each country and their present utilization;

- The potential hydro-electric power plants and master plans at the scale of whole river basins;

_The future demands for eleotric energy in the individual countries;

Prospects for the discovery of new oil and gas fields or coal-bearing areas;

- The possibility of a SUPPlementary supply of energy through advanced technology (such as the USa of nuclear techniques in the development of other natural resources as sources of energy);

- A survey of the geothermal resources in the region,

including the assessment of their possible utilization to obtain electric power, mineral resources or water.

Programme II - DEVELOPMENT AND RATIONAL UTILIZATION OF NATURAL RESOURCES

55.

For the development and rational utilization governmental machinery should be strengthened and natural resources should be carried out.

of natural resource~the a general inventcry of all Project (a) : To make a general inventory of the proved. probable and

possible reserves of mineral resources as well as an estimation of the "inferred" (prognostical) reserves It is recommended that:

The general project should be divided into several sub- projects specific te the substances which form the object of the evaluation: hydrocarbons, coal and bituminous schists, metallic ores,non-metallic ores, sedimentary rocks useful in industry, etc_;

- An appropriate classification of the categories of reserves and .proper methods of evaluation should be established in advance;

- An inventory of marine mineral resources sbc~ld be carried out separately.

Pro.iect (b) Strengthening and developing the existing governmental machinery or creating new bodies within governmental structures having the following objectives in the field of mineral resources

Co-ordination of national policy and pla~~i~g in respect of all mineral exploration activity carried out by public aLd private agencies, companies or enterprises;

Promotion of those techniques, equipment and methods for the extraction and processing of mineral deposits discovered by exploration, that prove tc be best suited to the

country's planned objectives;

Elaboration of national mlnlng legislation, and effective control of the rational exploitation of mineral resources;

Studies for the integrated utilization of existing mineral

",e",,,urces, the expansion of extraction and th.e"intt'flQij,1:<l'~

tion, of new materials.

Project (c)

Project (d)

Programme III

Development and rational utilization of water resources Computation of general water balance~including all water resources and all aspects of their utilization;

Improvement of water storage conditions in suitable areas, elimination of waste and reduction of natural losses;

Protection against water pollution;

Setting up of national bodies charged with water administration.

Development and ratienal utilization of energy resources Computation of "energy balances" for each country,and on a regional scale;

Study of the uti~ization of the associated gas produced with pet~oleum as a Source of energy;

Small-scale hydroelectric and thermal power schemes for rural areas;

Studies for the utilization of geothermal energy.

DEVELOPMENT OF RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND TECHNICAL TRAINING IN THE DOMAIN OF NATURAL RESOURCES

56. The trair.ing of local personnel at all levels to perform

specialized services in the field of the exploration and exploitation of natural resources is absolutely essential for each country if its natural wea~~h

is to be utilized 'l'Ej.{JiarlPlly.

Pro.iect (a) Training of national personnel able to perform the

required specialized services in the development of ,natural resources in African countries

The project should provide:

Courses at medium level for field technicians or cperators in: drilling wells, mineral exploitation and processing, oil production, refining and petro-chemistry, hydro- meteorological survey, energy supply;

Specialized courses and specialized faculties in the existing universities for: engineering geology, mining and petroleum engineering, mineral economics;

Project (b)

Project (c)

3-12 months or fellewships for the scientists, engineers and economists involved in research or productive

activity) ;

Refresher courses, seminars and symposia at national, interregional or regional level on matters of natural resources development.

Establishment of documentation centres at national and regional level for collecting and disseminating the available data and information resulting from field surveys, and new methods and teohniques developed in the field of natural resources

This project should provide for:

Establishing centres with the necessary sections and units provided with the neoessary equipment and personnel;

Working out a programme and procedures for collecting literature and information concerning natural resources which may be of interest to the African countries;

Working out the procedures for disseminating this informa- tion among the countries;

The provision of a better and fuller collection of existing information, as well as information about new methods and techniques in the field of exploration, development and utilization of natural resources.

Tra~ning of personnel for the use of earth resources

~'oration satellites

As international organizations are going to use special satellites for earth resources exploration, all countries should be ready to use the information which can be received from these satellites in their own countries; but this can only be a chd eved if they have their own technical personnel trained' to receive this information directly from satellites,

to read and to use it;

This personnel should be able to operate the necessary instruments, computers and other equipment;

Such training can be organ~zed initially on an international or regional basis, or in the advanced countries having the necessary facilities and equipment.

57.

Projects under this programme are directed to the development of governmental participation in the activities of national and multinational companies. This can give the Governments greater opportunities to co- ordinate the activities of these companies with the objectives of national development.

Project (a) , Development of governmental participation in the activity of national companies dealing with the exploration,

exploitation. and utilization of natural reSOurces

If any country wants to develop its economy and enjoy higher rates of growth it should work out a realistic development plan and ensure the fulfilment of the plan. But very often the governmental bodies responsible for planning are not in a position to set up real targets for privately owned enter- prises and companies since these are much more interested in the rates of growth of their own profits rather than in the country's economy as a whole~

Governmental participation in the activity of selected companies would undoubtedly make plans more realistic and facilitate their fulfilment. Furthermore direct participa- tion of the Government in the activity of any company will give the Government an opportunity to have a share of profits and to direct these funds to the development of sectors of higher priority.

Projecl; (b) Creation and promotion of African multi-national companies and institutions with the participation of Governments for the exploration of mineral resources and the utilization of energy and water reso~rces

Some African countries have an abundance of minerals, water or energy resources and do not need to develop minerals extrac- tion nor to increase production of energy for their own

purposes as they often have more important areas of needs and priorities. Some countries having such resources are not in a position to develop and utilize them because of the lack of financial resources. But at the same time sarno other

neighbouring countries are suffering from acute shortages of these resources and are not in a position to obtain them

r'rom abroad, for ins tance electric energy production;

There is a valuable opportunity here for many African

countries to undertake the development of capital intensive enterprises such as mines, hydroelectric power stations, dams for irrigation, etc., jointly by pooling their financial resources;

national companies with the governmental participation of the countries concerned.

Project (c) Stimulation of private companies and enterprises t.

co-ordinate their activities with governmental objectives mainly with a view to:

(i) Co-ordination of their plans of investments;

(ii) Training of national qualified personnel for all categories and at all levels.

This project is directly connected with project (a) of this programme.

In cases where some private companies are to play an important part in the development of the national economy but direct governmental participation in the activity of these companies is not considered to be desirable, the Government should stimulate and encourage these companies to develop their activities in accordance with the national development plans by some other means, e.g., by offering them technical, and may be even financial assistance in the areas of particular concern, by provision of special import concessions, by facilitating access to state credits and loans, and so on. Such measures will help the Government induce private companies to co-ordinate their activities with the main national objectives.

Programme V - PROMOTION OF INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL CO-OPERATION IN THE FIELD OF EXPLORATION, DEVELOPMENT AND UTILIZATION OF NATURAL WEAL'rH OF THE CONTINENT

58. The co-operation of neighbouring countries in the exploration and rational utilization of natural resources, particularly those located

along common borders (such as rivers and mineral deposits) will undoubtedly help these countries to pool their human and financial resources for more rapid development.

Project (a) , Encouragement of mutual co-operation of neighbouring countries in the exploitation of the potentialities of water and energy resources

Many African countries are not in a position to develop and utilize all the potentialities of their water and energy resources separately, for it is difficult for a single

country to build for example, a high dam with a high capacity hydroelectric power station even if the country is in very urgent need of such a dam for irrigation;

The co-operation of neighbouring countries in the realization of large projects for the multi-purposes utilization of water and energy resouroes is one of the best ways'for rapid develop- ment of the continent.

~he necessity for rational develo~me~t

and utilization of water and energy resources, and for the protection of water against pollution as well as the

necessi ty to develop the sectors which will .Se these resources should be kept in mind.

Project (b) Organization of international, regional and sub-regional conferences, seminars and symposia on .natura~

resources research. development and utilization in Africa This project is intended to help the African countries to exchange their experience on the issues and the prcblems of natural resources devel.pment,

These ccnferences, seminars and symposia should be designed to assist policy-makers, planners, scientists and

engineers to obtain better knowledge of the continent's natural resources as well as of the methods of their exploration, development and utilization;

International organizations, especially those cf the United Nations familY,as well as the governmen,al agencies concerned should bear in mind the necessity and usefulness of these undertakings.

Annex. ADDITIONAL NOTES ON THE AREAS FOR ACTION IN THE FIELD OF NATURAL HESOURCES DEVELOPMENT

Creation and/or improvement of national services

59. The Government of each devel.ping country should review its existing structure of scientific and technical services for investigation and develcp- ment of its natural resources and improve existir.g services where

necessary. Gcvernmental services should include:

A. A meteorological or weather servicEfl @Gmprising (a) A Central office/station wi th

(i) Headquarters;

(ii) Workshop for routine repairs .fJlpparatus;

(iii) Physics laboratory.

(b) and speci"Iized sections:

(i) (ii ) (iii)

Aerology and synoptic meteorology section;

Climatology, hydrometeorology and agrometeorology section;

Instrumental methods and equipment section.

B. ASurveyin/1: and mappin/1: service, with:

(a) A geodesy section;

(b) A topographic survey section;

(c) An aerial photography section;

(d) A map printing section.

C. 4.Rydrology service (or water supply serVice) comprising (a) Field study and documentation sections:

(i) A surface water section;

(ii) A ground water section;

(iii) A d'",....-e.cqui.si tion and processing section;

(iv) A hydrological studies and forecasting section;

(v) Research and training division.

(b) Utilization sections (applied hydrology):

(i) A community water section;

(ii) An irrigation and drainage section;

(iii) A hydroelectric power section;

(iv) An inland waterways section.

(c) Water analysis laboratory.

(d) Sea water utilization section.

. D. A Geology and mining service comprising

(a) A geology section (to undertake all the required

studies and to prepare geological maps). This should include:

(L) Geological survey unit;

(ii) Geological mapping unit;

(iii) Laboratory for petrography;

(av) Laboratory for mineralogy;

(v) Geophysical unit.

(b) A mines or mineral resources section consisting of

(ii) Mining operations unit;

(iii) Mining code and mining regulations unit.

E•

.!IL

Energy and electric power development service comprising (a) Mineral fuels section;

(b) HYdroelectric power section;

(c) Thermal electric power section;

(d) Non-conventional sources of energy section;

(e) Section for integrated planning of production and distribution of energy;

(f) Financial section (to deal with capital and foreign currency requirements for energy development schemes;

with taxation and pricing in this field).

F. A Soil science service comprising (a) An administrative section;

(b) A documentation centre;

(c) A survey and cartography section;

(d) An experimentation section for studies of the fertility characteristics of soils;

(f) A soil conservation section.

Resource analysis and field surveys

60. Many types of natural resources may be involved in the development of a country and many of them can and should be studied simultaneously.

The analyses of the basic resources on which the national economy may be founded are, therefore, of fundamental importance to the progress of economic development. Surveys and resource analyses should be designed, where possible, with reference to the technical as well as to economio considerations. They have to show not only the economic interest in exploiting a resource and the need for this development, but also the feasibility and the difficulties of carrying it out.

61. Surveys and resource analyses have to be closely co-ordinated with the work done or being planned by the corresponding technical and other services which will use their results. Only in such a case would they functien in harmony with the general efforts of the country.

62. A regional or sub-regional approach should be kept in mind. Studies need not be limited by the boundaries of a country. They could cover a region.

63. Resource analyses should be development-oriented and based On the compilation and critical study of existing information relating to a resource, and on the geographical or other data on the basis of which the possible extension of the resource and tts use can be planned. An economic study of the probable utilization of natural reSOurces as such is also of great importance. Finally the possibility of obtaining the final product from a natural resource and its probable total cost must be investigated and evaluated.

64. Field surveyS should be undertaken after it has been decided to develop one or more of the resources of the country in order to add some new details to what is known of the existence and characteristic. of the resource concerned.

Types of field surveys

(a) Specialized field surveys usually cover one particular

subject (such as hydrology or one particular type of resource);

(b) Ecological field surveys are easy to apply and, although narrower than the integrated method, sometimes give good results;

(c) An integrated field survey is one in which several special aspects of a problem or a region are studied concurrently

in such a way that the interactions between the parameters of the problem are eluciated.

65. In such surveys, a team of specialists in the various disciplines, after having studied and surveyed the region together, produce a series of detailed and integrated proposals that should lead to the full development of the region.

66. In many cases a survey operation also makes it possible to train young people or national counterpart professionals, (when the operation is undertaken under bilateral or international assistance) side by side with specialists of great experience.

67.

The desirable coverage of surveys. Natural resources which are

coneidered to be without value today may become very valuable in future, because of technical progress and changes in economic circumstances. And if they are not taken into account in the first inventory of an area, the process has to be repeated later. To make general surveys and thorough investigations from the beginning may, therefore, save time and money in future.

68. The development of any natural resource should not be undertaken without thorough study of the relevant economic and human conditions.

Since the world economic situation and nature itself are constantly changing, the priorities are likely to change year by year and routine studies, once begun, should be ~arried on for several years.

69.

Every operation to develop a natural resource has both short-term and long-term results. In reaching decisions, the short-term results are likely to be given more weightthan the long-term results, but care should be taken to ensure that this should not lead to an irreversible deteriora- tion of the resource that is being developed.

Scientific and technological research in the field of natural resources

A. Research

Specific studies and research

70. These can be undertaken in part within laboratories, but many studies have to be carried out in the field, often far away from the cities. In many cases, advanced research cannot be undertaken in the developing oountries if the researoh calls for sophisticated apparatus which is not available in the country.

Experimental laboratory research

71. Research with models is possible when the natural conditions are reproduced as closely as possible and to scale. It is also possible to formulate purely mathematical models based on electrical analogy. Research with models is being used in experimental hydrology, soil studies, etc.

Technical studies

72. These are very different in character. They include physical and

chemical analyses, and experiments concerning physicc~chemicalprocesses.

On-site observations and research 73. These include:

(a) (b)

Research on the evolution.ofdifferent types of resources. Such investigations must be continued over long periods (5-11 years) j

Applied research.

Feasibility studies

74. Feasibility studies can normally be divided into three parts:

(a) Laboratory research to make adjustments to the methods for using ~r processing of a natural resource;

(b) The establishment of a kind of pilot scheme;

(c) A careful review of the other factors that may be favourable or unfavourable for the proposed innovation.

Institutes for research and trainin~

Regional and/or multi-national research _insti~~ds 75. Several neighbouring countries may co-operate in establishing

institutes for different studies which require a common solution.

For a number of smal: States, multinaticnal research institutions may be the only effective means of providing for their requirements.

National research institutes

76. National research institutes may be of two types:

(a) Specialized institutes which may be of two very distinct types'

(i) Dealing with a particular discipline (hydrology, geology, geophysics, etc.);

(ii) Dealing with particular resources (coal, metallic ores, etc.).

(b) Multidisciplinary (or" general) natural resources research institutes.

77.

Such institutions could be established in a number of different ways, but in any case they should perform the following functions:

(a) Inventory and analysis of potential land resources including integrated surveys;

(b) Training of appropriate teams of specialists and technicians for this purpose;

(c) Identification of research problems and specific research activity not covered by other institutions;

(d) Collection of documents, maps, surveys;

(e) Collection of minerals, zoological and botanical specimens.

Each institute s h ou Ld. have ar, an a Lysi s and statistical, section and a Labr az-y, The position of the institutes in each country's structure may vary.

78.

As far as specialized institutes dealing with particular ,disciplines are concerned, they should undoubtedly be attached to or connected with the

universities or other multidisciplinary institutes. On the other hand, specialized institutes dealing with particular resources should be attached to or connected with corresponding governmental departments.

79.

All these institutes should be supervised by the Government which shoul.

reserve for itself the important role of determining the programmes and the application of research. All the activities of these research institutes (both specialized and multidisciplinary) should be fully co- ordinated at three levels:

(a) Among the institutes themselves to avoid any duplication;

(b) At the level of national science and technology policymaking;

(c) At the level of the country's general development policy.

Experimental stations

80. Co-ordination between research and application is usually maintained through experimental stations, the work of which makes it possible to determine the best way in which the methods developed by the research

institutes can be applied to the utilization of a resource. These stations

should be subordinated to the prinoipal research institute and should collaborate closely with the Government's technical services.

Advisory councils on natural resources development

81. The role of these councils is to advise on the preparation of programmes and to co-ordinate their execution. They should include representatives of the various technical departments and policy-making organs; of the research institutes as well as persons concerned with the practical aspects of resources (of mineral, agricultural, industrial and other sectors of the economy).

Training programmes 82. These should include:

the training of different types of personnel:

(a) Skilled workers and experimental assistants;

(b) Biddle level technical personnel;

(c) Research workers;

the provision of seminars and courses of advanced training.

- the provision of arrangements for specialized study abroad.

In the course of the implementation of training programmes, aid may be sought from international organizations.

Pilot pro~ects

83. Before the initiation of large-scale investments in the development and use of natural reSOurces in developing countries, small-scale pilot projects should be undertaken.

84.

From surveys carried out in various African countries, it appears that agriculture is still the main activity of 70 to 80 per cent of the population.

What is striking, however, is the fact that, in these very African countries there is still sometimes mention of famine and very often, of malnutrition.

Efforts made during recent years to improve agriculture do not appear to have borne much fruit in this essential sector. In fact, a cursory review of the role of this sector in the African economy shows quite clearly that it does not produce enough to feed the population and that its major emphasis remains that of increasing the production of primary agricultural products in order to provide raw materials for the industries of the developed countries. In African countries, considerable attention has always been given to and emphasis placed on producing export crops which earn foreign currency. But the precarious position of agricultural raw materials is common knowledge, and it is getting worse because of the considerable development in the production of synthetic substitutes for a great number of agricultural raw materials produced in the African countries: nonetheless export crops continue to be studied and developed with a view to increasing their yield. The present situation is clearly characterized by priority given to cash crops to the detriment of food crop production.

85.

Without going so far as to suggest a complete reversal of the existing trends, it is urgent that proper attention be given to African agriculture so that it will be able to provide food for the whole population which continues to increase. The present situation in agriculture

in Africa whose customary vegetable foods, in particular, are deficient in protein results in an inadequate diet which takes its toll on the human resources so necessary for the economic and social development of the countries in the region.

86. It is therefore important that agronomic research should make new contributions to agricultural production in Africa by directing it towards objectives which meet local needs and result in increased agricultural production including the provision of more and better food. The inadequate development of African agriculture stems from causes that science and

technology can eliminate, namely:

_ Traditional cultivation practised by the peasants which contributes to the deterioration of the soil;

The very low productivity of local varieties;

- The considerable loss of crops and harvest caused by insects and animals, disease and poor storage techniques.

87. To attain these objectives many problems must first be solved through agricultural research so that productivity in agriculture and in animal production could be increased. It will be necessary to develop the cultivable land and water resources, to study and adopt new agricultural practices suitable to the different types of soils and to the

different crops, to create well-tended pasture land and

introduce disease control, to exploit satisfactorily the resources of the sea and the inland waters of the continent, to develop and improve high-yielding, disease-resistant crop varieties, to promote the genetic improvement of livestock by the introduction of new strains suitable to local conditions and resistant to the major diseases, and to protect the crops against parasites and losses.

88. African agriculture with its many shortcomings offers, as can be

observed, an immense area for the application of science and technology for improving and promoting its productivity, through research carried out in local institutes adapted to local conditions.

89. But the major bottlenecks to the implementation of suitable measures likely to bring about rapid change in the situation are the inadequacy of technical knowledge, the problems of full utilization of existing knowledge, and the shortage of trained staff. Therefore, for African countries the scientific problems raised by the expansion of agriculture are numerous.

Of course, they cannot all be solved at the same time, scme order of priority must be established.

90. The problem of increasing agricultural production in Africa may be approached in two ways. In fact, one could consider either the development of new land, or the increase in the productivity of crops particularly food crops on land already under cultivation. The increase in the area of

cultivable land will require considerable capital and it is for this simple reason that increasing yield rather than land area would be an

easier choice. However, in Africa, the two lines of approach may be proposed depending on the regions, but special emphasis should be given to the use of new technology to improve the yield of land already under cultivetion.

91. Without a careful appraisal of the situatio~one might easily be led to propose research in Africa on artificial protein. The general opinion on the continent however is that it is possible to increase the production and to raise the protein content of vegetable and other crops through

conventional agriculture with the help of science and technology; furthermore, fuller exploitation of fishing and livestock can contribute at lower cost to provide the necessary supplies of protein.

92. As is well known, fishing has, up to the present time, been a traditional occupation in several African countries bordering large

stretches of water. However, primitive techniques have prevented the people from taking full advantage of the fish reserves either in the sea or in inland waters. Research and modern developments (marine biology, better vessels and modern fishing techniques) in fishing offer great prospects, and their adaptation to and application in African zones should solve a great part of the problem of protein deficiency.